What's hot _ what's new _ in the food world? Each year thousands of food companies, supermarket executives, chefs and buyers descend on the Jacob Javitz Center in New York City for the Fancy Food Show. It's where I go to discover the new food trends and the specialty products we'll find on the shelves this autumn.
Health and wellness have now turned the corner to become mainstream. I saw lots of quinoa, chia, hemp seeds and pumpkin products all boasting super food qualities.
Here are some of my favorite finds worth looking for in your markets soon.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS TAKING CENTER STAGE
RXBAR protein bars come in multiple flavors. The protein source is egg whites and they have no gluten, no dairy and no soy. They are available at Whole Foods, Target and online at www.RXBAR.com.
RISHI organic iced tea concentrate by combines turmeric, ginger and chai spices. Mix it with club soda to make a refreshing and energizing drink. www.rishi-tea.com.
Looking for a guilt-free snack? Try Skinny Quinoa Sticks. They're crunchy, tasty and are made with protein filed quinoa flour. 30 sticks are 140 calories. www.hiimskinny.com.
CHOCOLATE POWER
Dark chocolate flavored many products. Enjoy your chocolate a guilt-free with Barkeater Quinoa Ka-Pow. It's a rich dark chocolate bar with quinoa, giving it a crunchy texture. www.barkeaterchocolates.com.
MAPLE MADNESS
Smoked maple was another darling of the show.
Sugar Bob's Smoked Maple Syrup gently infuses pure Vermont maple syrup with hardwood smoke giving a sweet and smoky flavor to your dish. Try it as a glaze on chicken or salmon. www.sugarbobsfinestkind.com.
THE YEAR OF THE PULSE
Finally, pulse foods will be big this year. The UN has designated this the year of the pulse. You'll be seeing beans as the base for many products. Biena's Rockin' Ranch Chickpea Snack packs a big protein and fiber punch. www.bienafoods.com.
